Project Manager – Southpaw Studio Fit-Out CIDD

Southpaw Dance Productions is seeking a freelance Project Manager to lead the transformation of its new studio in Sunderland into the Centre for Innovation & Digital Dance (CIDD). This ambitious year-long fit-out will deliver an accessible, high-spec space equipped with cutting-edge digital tools for immersive performance, community engagement, and creative exploration.

The successful candidate will work closely with Southpaw’s Artistic Director, technical contractors, and digital specialists to manage the planning, procurement, build, and testing of physical and digital infrastructure. The studio, housed in a listed building, must comply with heritage restrictions-requiring moveable, non-fixed installations-so innovative and compliant design thinking is crucial.

Key elements of the project include: installation of motion capture, immersive projection mapping, theatrical lighting, aerial rigging, blackout solutions, AV systems, and networked VR capabilities. You’ll coordinate the fit-out in structured phases, aligning with cashflow and funding milestones. A deep understanding of project planning, H&S, budgeting, and arts-sector delivery will be vital, alongside excellent communication and leadership skills.

You will oversee procurement (including major purchases over £10k), manage stakeholder relationships, and ensure systems are tested, integrated, and meet Southpaw’s technical and creative objectives. You’ll be a strong collaborator, able to translate artistic ambition into practical, safe and deliverable solutions.

This is an exciting opportunity to shape a pioneering creative space. We particularly welcome applications from individuals with experience managing digital performance environments, or projects involving immersive or interactive technology.

The contract runs from June 2025 to June 2026. Fee: £15,000, paid in instalments against key milestones. The role is freelance and largely Sunderland-based.